Julio Herrera Velutini Art Collection and Philanthropy


Julio Herrera Velutini is a committed art collector who has always spent considerable amounts on artworks from around the globe. Julio’s love for art, especially painting and sculpture, was always immense. Julio is a great admirer of renowned artist Fernando Botero and sculptor Jesús Rafael Soto.

  Soto was an artist whom Julio admired greatly. Julio has expressed his adoration for Soto’s geometric style, which, according to him, is one-of-a-kind. Furthermore, he places Soto’s kinetic art on a pedestal, claiming it to be unparalleled artistry. Julio holds immense respect for the works of Columbian artist Fernando Botero. Botero’s art is known for its unique reinterpretations of classic paintings, a trait that Herrera admires. The largest private collector of these artworks, he embraces the distinctiveness of each artist's creations.

The parallels between Herrera and Botero lie in their approaches to their respective fields. Just as Botero reimagined existing art to create something novel, Herrera has similarly reshaped the world of business and commerce. Herrera's admiration for Botero's work demonstrates his appreciation for the creative process and his ability to draw inspiration from various sources.    

Latin American art is characterised by a blend of African, Spanish, and indigenous cultures that have shaped the country’s cultural identity. In addition, the Latin American art scene has been enriched through Julio Herrera’s philanthropic efforts, which have enabled local artists to collaborate with their colleagues across international borders. His collection safeguards the artistic heritage of Latin America, ensuring that the legacies of Botero and Soto are not only celebrated but preserved for future generations.  

Julio Herrera Velutini's interest in collecting sculptures and artworks transcends personal passion; it is a commitment to enriching art in general. His collection not only celebrates the artistic significance of master artists like Soto and Botero but also reaffirms the timeless power of art to connect, challenge, and transform.

Julio Herrera Velutini's private collection showcases his dedication to art, cultural preservation, and global connection, preserving and enhancing the voices of Latin American artists. His art collection houses the largest collection of the works of Fernando Botero and Jesus Rafael Soto. The establishment of numerous art museums has also been financed by Julio.

Julio’s efforts contribute positively to the promotion of intercultural appreciation. The unique aesthetic and universal themes of the sculptures by Botero and Soto transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. These pieces encourage individuals from various cultural backgrounds to interact with and value the originality of Latin American art.